Union Minister Launches ₹2.51 Crore Dairy Development Initiatives in Sikkim

Sikkim, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, is set to inaugurate projects worth ₹2.51 crore aimed at strengthening dairy development and livestock infrastructure in Sikkim. His visit to the state will take place from November 2 to 3, focusing on initiatives related to dairy growth.

During his trip, Singh will assess ongoing dairy projects and officially open a microbiology laboratory for the Sikkim Milk Union under the National Program for Dairy Development (NPDD). He will also kick off the establishment of 57 new dairy cooperatives as part of the ‘White Revolution 2.0’ initiative and distribute registration certificates to five recently registered cooperatives. This move aims to expand the cooperative dairy network, particularly in northern Sikkim, where 15 new cooperatives will be formed.

An official statement highlighted that a traceability initiative for ‘Churpi’ cheese will be launched in Gangtok and Zorathang. Singh will also promote two ‘Fodder Plus’ farmer producer organizations for the Sikkim Milk Union under the Indian government’s scheme for 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).

Additionally, new products will be unveiled, including organic honey, niger seed mixed powder, and organic biscuits and sweets made from millet and buckwheat. These efforts are significant for diversifying and adding value to local products.

Sikkim has played a crucial role in dairy development within the Northeast region, producing approximately 89,350 metric tons of milk during the 2024–25 period, with per capita milk availability at around 352 grams daily. Since 2014, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has allocated ₹70.93 crore under the National Gokul Mission to support dairy sector growth. A special project for the development and conservation of the local ‘Siri’ breed has also received ₹27.63 crore in funding.

For the development and conservation of yaks, ₹1 crore was allocated for the 2023–24 period, with an additional ₹1 crore earmarked for purchasing high genetic quality yak bulls under the National Gokul Mission for the 2026–27 fiscal year.

Under the NPDD, the DAHD has approved nine projects with a total cost of ₹59.60 crore, of which the central government’s share is ₹54.61 crore. Out of this, ₹53.59 crore has already been released, and ₹52.61 crore has been utilized.